LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Birmingham, MI
He also specializes in working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Dr. Steven Nakisher offers a practical approach in a supportive, yet challenging atmosphere to help clients gain insight, make lasting changes in life and "get out your own way". With over 25 years of experience, he works particularly well with people who have previously experienced therapy as unhelpful. Dr. Nakisher also works a business consultant to major corporations, improving business through human capital.
He also specializes in working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Dr. Steven Nakisher offers a practical approach in a supportive, yet challenging atmosphere to help clients gain insight, make lasting changes in life and "get out your own way". With over 25 years of experience, he works particularly well with people who have previously experienced therapy as unhelpful. Dr. Nakisher also works a business consultant to major corporations, improving business through human capital.
Christina Gallardo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009 (Online Only)
I specialize in anxiety, and working with LGBTQ+ folks.
Do you wake up every morning promising yourself that today will be the day you figure out what you need to feel better, only to lay your head down at night exhausted from repeating the same patterns? Are you stuck in a cycle of anxiety or depression and feel like you are just trying to get through each day? You don’t have to be alone in your pain any longer. Healing and happiness are possible with the help of therapy. As your therapist, I will walk alongside you and together we will examine the roadblocks in your life, identify the skills and tools you need to make changes, and use them to create a happier, fuller life.
I specialize in anxiety, and working with LGBTQ+ folks.
Do you wake up every morning promising yourself that today will be the day you figure out what you need to feel better, only to lay your head down at night exhausted from repeating the same patterns? Are you stuck in a cycle of anxiety or depression and feel like you are just trying to get through each day? You don’t have to be alone in your pain any longer. Healing and happiness are possible with the help of therapy. As your therapist, I will walk alongside you and together we will examine the roadblocks in your life, identify the skills and tools you need to make changes, and use them to create a happier, fuller life.
Hello, Bonjour ! I am a bilingual (English/French) Licensed Psychologist, with a doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Detroit Mercy. While some of my clinical interests include anxiety, depression, grief, romantic relationships' difficulties, intimate partner violence, family problems, and professional/life transitions, I am also very involved in family planning difficulties, infertility/adoption, LGBTQIA+, immigration, cultural adjustment, and diversity related issues.
Hello, Bonjour ! I am a bilingual (English/French) Licensed Psychologist, with a doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Detroit Mercy. While some of my clinical interests include anxiety, depression, grief, romantic relationships' difficulties, intimate partner violence, family problems, and professional/life transitions, I am also very involved in family planning difficulties, infertility/adoption, LGBTQIA+, immigration, cultural adjustment, and diversity related issues.
Embodied Wellness, PLLC - Immediate Openings!
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009 (Online Only)
We are LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC friendly and have immediate openings.
You feel exhausted and stuck. You are disconnected from yourself and others. You’re sick of being on autopilot. You are tired of being brave. You find yourself in the same old patterns. You want to change but you don't know how. You can't help but replay the same painful memories, worries, and negative self-talk in your mind. Maybe you've tried self-care practices, meditation, or yoga and they helped, but you can't shake the feeling that there's more to explore on your healing path. We are here for folks with the desire to look inward and make the changes in their lives that they have been craving.
We are LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC friendly and have immediate openings.
You feel exhausted and stuck. You are disconnected from yourself and others. You’re sick of being on autopilot. You are tired of being brave. You find yourself in the same old patterns. You want to change but you don't know how. You can't help but replay the same painful memories, worries, and negative self-talk in your mind. Maybe you've tried self-care practices, meditation, or yoga and they helped, but you can't shake the feeling that there's more to explore on your healing path. We are here for folks with the desire to look inward and make the changes in their lives that they have been craving.
Are you struggling with your sexual orientation and/or gender identity? Do feel isolated within the LGBTQIA community? Are your mental health symptoms (i.e. depression, anxiety, mood instability, insomnia, addiction, low self-esteem, poor body image) holding you back from fulfilling your dreams? Is trauma/PTSD ruining your life and your relationships? Do you often wonder how to help yourself? You may feel alone, isolated and withdrawn. Your challenges are not insurmountable! There is real help and the biggest step is to ask. There is no shame in asking for help. Be free from addiction, mental health and relationship struggles.
Are you struggling with your sexual orientation and/or gender identity? Do feel isolated within the LGBTQIA community? Are your mental health symptoms (i.e. depression, anxiety, mood instability, insomnia, addiction, low self-esteem, poor body image) holding you back from fulfilling your dreams? Is trauma/PTSD ruining your life and your relationships? Do you often wonder how to help yourself? You may feel alone, isolated and withdrawn. Your challenges are not insurmountable! There is real help and the biggest step is to ask. There is no shame in asking for help. Be free from addiction, mental health and relationship struggles.
Craig Vankempen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48012
I am especially skilled at navigating the coming out process and am happy to write letters for folx looking to transition.
I am here to support LGBTQIA youth and adults and those that love and support them. I work with all types of relationship structures, including polyam, open, and kink, and want to help people find out how to live their best life.
I am especially skilled at navigating the coming out process and am happy to write letters for folx looking to transition.
I am here to support LGBTQIA youth and adults and those that love and support them. I work with all types of relationship structures, including polyam, open, and kink, and want to help people find out how to live their best life.
I have learned much from working with people of multicultural backgrounds, as well as the LGBT community, Veterans & their partners, cancer patients and their family, and more.
Welcoming couples clients! Relationship problems are common, and you have taken a courageous step by seeking therapy. As one of the few psychologists specializing in couple therapy, I have supported hundreds of couples by providing effective, evidence-based treatments that scientific research has shown to bring significant and lasting improvement. My own research on relationships has been published in peer-reviewed journals, and featured here in Psychology Today, international media outlets such as Business Insider Germany and New York Times Best Seller Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown.
I have learned much from working with people of multicultural backgrounds, as well as the LGBT community, Veterans & their partners, cancer patients and their family, and more.
Welcoming couples clients! Relationship problems are common, and you have taken a courageous step by seeking therapy. As one of the few psychologists specializing in couple therapy, I have supported hundreds of couples by providing effective, evidence-based treatments that scientific research has shown to bring significant and lasting improvement. My own research on relationships has been published in peer-reviewed journals, and featured here in Psychology Today, international media outlets such as Business Insider Germany and New York Times Best Seller Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown.
B Snogles
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009 (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck, worried your relationship cant handle more conflict? Feeling like you are having the same fights, and need a change? We are taught relationships are easy, and should be just like romantic comedies. Relationships take effort to maintain connection and get through the rough patches. Whether you are looking to open your relationship, increase intimacy, or want to improve communication, therapy can help! Learning how to fight fair and improving intimacy is possible. I am LGBTQ+, polyamory cnm, kink affirming. Affirming couples therapy for all relationships. Couples intensives in MI and FL. AASECT certified.
Are you feeling stuck, worried your relationship cant handle more conflict? Feeling like you are having the same fights, and need a change? We are taught relationships are easy, and should be just like romantic comedies. Relationships take effort to maintain connection and get through the rough patches. Whether you are looking to open your relationship, increase intimacy, or want to improve communication, therapy can help! Learning how to fight fair and improving intimacy is possible. I am LGBTQ+, polyamory cnm, kink affirming. Affirming couples therapy for all relationships. Couples intensives in MI and FL. AASECT certified.
Issues close to my heart are those suffering with anxiety, facing new life transitions, postpartum depression and caregiver support.
Are anxiety and depression ruling your life? Is everyday a struggle? I am a licensed counselor with experience who can transform your life for the better. I work with clients facing intimate relationship issues, bereavement, severe anxiety and depression. I am compassionate and possess the tools to create positive change in your life. I come from the perspective that everyone has a story to tell and deserves a place where it can be safely heard. My mission is to work with clients in a highly attuned and deeply caring way. I am also trained in EMDR for clients with trauma to help bring balance to their lives.
Issues close to my heart are those suffering with anxiety, facing new life transitions, postpartum depression and caregiver support.
Are anxiety and depression ruling your life? Is everyday a struggle? I am a licensed counselor with experience who can transform your life for the better. I work with clients facing intimate relationship issues, bereavement, severe anxiety and depression. I am compassionate and possess the tools to create positive change in your life. I come from the perspective that everyone has a story to tell and deserves a place where it can be safely heard. My mission is to work with clients in a highly attuned and deeply caring way. I am also trained in EMDR for clients with trauma to help bring balance to their lives.
Sue Hakam
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009 (Online Only)
I have worked with people having several issues, including but not limited to, Depression, Anxiety, Suicidal Ideation, Emotional Dys-Regulation, Social Anxiety, Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD), Relationship Issues, LGBTQ+ issues, Social Communication/Boundary Issues, Divorce, Grief and Loss, and other Life Challenges. I counsel teenagers and adults who are dealing with some of these life challenges. I want to help you to be able to move forward again – taking one small step at a time. I want to remind you that you are not alone and that there is help available.
I have worked with people having several issues, including but not limited to, Depression, Anxiety, Suicidal Ideation, Emotional Dys-Regulation, Social Anxiety, Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD), Relationship Issues, LGBTQ+ issues, Social Communication/Boundary Issues, Divorce, Grief and Loss, and other Life Challenges. I counsel teenagers and adults who are dealing with some of these life challenges. I want to help you to be able to move forward again – taking one small step at a time. I want to remind you that you are not alone and that there is help available.
Tricia Lugger
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009 (Online Only)
I work with a diverse clientele of individuals on grief/bereavement, anxiety, chronic pain, depression, life changes, childhood and adult trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), sexual abuse, substance abuse and sexuality issues ( LGBTQ).
The single most important factor in successful psychotherapy is the relationship between client and therapist; effective therapy starts from the moment you call or email. If you feel unsure, please contact me about setting up your first appointment.
I work with a diverse clientele of individuals on grief/bereavement, anxiety, chronic pain, depression, life changes, childhood and adult trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), sexual abuse, substance abuse and sexuality issues ( LGBTQ).
The single most important factor in successful psychotherapy is the relationship between client and therapist; effective therapy starts from the moment you call or email. If you feel unsure, please contact me about setting up your first appointment.
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I have over 22 years of mental health experience with a Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology from the MiSPP and Master of Arts Degree from the UDM in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in addiction studies. I provide Compassionate and Individualized treatment. My approach to therapy is eclectic utilizing a variety of modalities, including psychodynamic, solution focused, insight orientated. I have experience working with adolescents, adults, and geriatrics seeking treatment for anxiety, depression, health issues, divorce, life transitions, stress, LGBT+ issues, parent training, couples counseling, and consultation.
I have over 22 years of mental health experience with a Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology from the MiSPP and Master of Arts Degree from the UDM in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in addiction studies. I provide Compassionate and Individualized treatment. My approach to therapy is eclectic utilizing a variety of modalities, including psychodynamic, solution focused, insight orientated. I have experience working with adolescents, adults, and geriatrics seeking treatment for anxiety, depression, health issues, divorce, life transitions, stress, LGBT+ issues, parent training, couples counseling, and consultation.
Sarah R. Adair Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009
I'm LGBTQIA+, Kink, and PolyAm informed and aware.
After our first session, most of my clients express feeling relief and hope. Later in therapy, they tell me that sessions have changed their lives in surprising ways, and that they have learned things about themselves they didn't know before. It's very important to me that therapy is useful and helpful. During our first session, we'll explore your goals and needs in therapy, and how you would like to feel better. At the end of our first hour together, you'll have someone on your side to help, and a plan to move forward. I look forward to connecting with you soon!
I'm LGBTQIA+, Kink, and PolyAm informed and aware.
After our first session, most of my clients express feeling relief and hope. Later in therapy, they tell me that sessions have changed their lives in surprising ways, and that they have learned things about themselves they didn't know before. It's very important to me that therapy is useful and helpful. During our first session, we'll explore your goals and needs in therapy, and how you would like to feel better. At the end of our first hour together, you'll have someone on your side to help, and a plan to move forward. I look forward to connecting with you soon!
I am queer and have experience working with clients across the spectrum of sexuality and gender.
Are you curious about what circumstances, traumas, and relationships have set the stage for how you experience your life? Are you feeling stuck inside yourself or your relationship? Are you overwhelmed by thoughts and anxieties that seem insurmountable? Does it seem like your own queerness is too difficult to parse on your own?
I am queer and have experience working with clients across the spectrum of sexuality and gender.
Are you curious about what circumstances, traumas, and relationships have set the stage for how you experience your life? Are you feeling stuck inside yourself or your relationship? Are you overwhelmed by thoughts and anxieties that seem insurmountable? Does it seem like your own queerness is too difficult to parse on your own?
I am also proud to work with underserved populations such as those in the law enforcement, kink, BDSM, military, faith based and LGBTQIA+ communities.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) as well as a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) through AASECT. My work focuses on marriage and couples therapy, specifically centered on infidelity repair, communication issues, couples in crisis, relationships on the brink, and those experiencing a range of frustrations and challenges with physical intimacy. I have been featured in Forbes, the Knot, and other leading media outlets offering my insight into relationships and communication. I would love to meet with you about your unique circumstances and how I might be able to help.
I am also proud to work with underserved populations such as those in the law enforcement, kink, BDSM, military, faith based and LGBTQIA+ communities.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) as well as a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) through AASECT. My work focuses on marriage and couples therapy, specifically centered on infidelity repair, communication issues, couples in crisis, relationships on the brink, and those experiencing a range of frustrations and challenges with physical intimacy. I have been featured in Forbes, the Knot, and other leading media outlets offering my insight into relationships and communication. I would love to meet with you about your unique circumstances and how I might be able to help.
Specialized areas of training include Mindfulness and LGBTQ affirmative therapy practices.
I believe that counseling can be beneficial for anyone and everyone because at some time in our life we will struggle with something. My focus as a clinician is to help you work through what is weighing you down in your day to day life and equip you with the tools to move forward and grown. I have worked for over five years with a variety of populations including adolescents, teens, new moms and the LGBTQIA+ community. I am continually attending seminars and reading up on new topics to provide my clients with the best, research based, interventions and tools I can offer.
Specialized areas of training include Mindfulness and LGBTQ affirmative therapy practices.
I believe that counseling can be beneficial for anyone and everyone because at some time in our life we will struggle with something. My focus as a clinician is to help you work through what is weighing you down in your day to day life and equip you with the tools to move forward and grown. I have worked for over five years with a variety of populations including adolescents, teens, new moms and the LGBTQIA+ community. I am continually attending seminars and reading up on new topics to provide my clients with the best, research based, interventions and tools I can offer.
Sarah Cissell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CST
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48012
I have completed training in sex therapy, LGBTQ+ concerns, and provide kink and poly affirming therapy.
As a coach and therapist, my approach centers around empowerment and the integral role relationships play in our lives. A self-identified life long learner, I pride myself on sharing information and relevant resources with clients. My work is both goal oriented and client directed. My therapeutic approach is attachment-based and utilizes an eclectic mix of modalities including interpersonal therapy, CBT, strengths-based, and trauma-focused therapy. Areas of interest include sexuality, relationships, depression,, anxiety, transitions, and trauma.
I have completed training in sex therapy, LGBTQ+ concerns, and provide kink and poly affirming therapy.
As a coach and therapist, my approach centers around empowerment and the integral role relationships play in our lives. A self-identified life long learner, I pride myself on sharing information and relevant resources with clients. My work is both goal oriented and client directed. My therapeutic approach is attachment-based and utilizes an eclectic mix of modalities including interpersonal therapy, CBT, strengths-based, and trauma-focused therapy. Areas of interest include sexuality, relationships, depression,, anxiety, transitions, and trauma.
I am of Asian descent, queer, non binary, and I have experience working with clients across the gender and sexual identity spectrum.
Are you feeling anxious about your relationships? Do you worry about people’s judgments and how other people view you? Do you struggle on how to handle the many hurdles that life throws at you? Do you struggle with ADHD and need help with juggling the expectations and responsibilities that come with living in a neurotypical world while also affirming your inherent worth? Are you navigating the often life-long journey of understanding your sexual or gender identity while also carrying the traumas that come with exposure to a disapproving environment? Is it challenging to balance your cultural identity and your mental health.
I am of Asian descent, queer, non binary, and I have experience working with clients across the gender and sexual identity spectrum.
Are you feeling anxious about your relationships? Do you worry about people’s judgments and how other people view you? Do you struggle on how to handle the many hurdles that life throws at you? Do you struggle with ADHD and need help with juggling the expectations and responsibilities that come with living in a neurotypical world while also affirming your inherent worth? Are you navigating the often life-long journey of understanding your sexual or gender identity while also carrying the traumas that come with exposure to a disapproving environment? Is it challenging to balance your cultural identity and your mental health.
If you are looking to make changes in your life, I provide a supportive environment where you will be heard. I have many years of experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, imposter syndrome, grief and loss, low self-esteem, the LGBTQ+ community, and establishing and maintaining healthier relationships with those around you. Together, we will explore what brings you to therapy at this time, set attainable goals, and agree on an approach that’s tailored to suit your needs – whether through traditional talk therapy, art therapy, or life coaching.
If you are looking to make changes in your life, I provide a supportive environment where you will be heard. I have many years of experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, imposter syndrome, grief and loss, low self-esteem, the LGBTQ+ community, and establishing and maintaining healthier relationships with those around you. Together, we will explore what brings you to therapy at this time, set attainable goals, and agree on an approach that’s tailored to suit your needs – whether through traditional talk therapy, art therapy, or life coaching.
Cally Kantarian
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP, MLP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009
Waitlist for new clients
I see clients with a variety of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, transitions, and relationship issues.
EVERY human deserves a place in which they can feel safe, un-judged, and respected. Within that safety comes true growth, understanding, realization and acceptance for yourself and your story. I hope to walk with you on your personal journey in finding the grace and compassion to find your authentic self.
I see clients with a variety of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, transitions, and relationship issues.
EVERY human deserves a place in which they can feel safe, un-judged, and respected. Within that safety comes true growth, understanding, realization and acceptance for yourself and your story. I hope to walk with you on your personal journey in finding the grace and compassion to find your authentic self.
See more therapy options for Birmingham
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Birmingham
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- Bloomfield
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LGBTQ+ Therapists
Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?
Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.
Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.
How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.
How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?
Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.
Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?
While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.